Lanseria International Airport is embarking on a new chapter of growth following significant changes in its shareholding structure – setting the scene for its vision of becoming the “gateway to Africa”.
In recent months two of the airport’s major shareholders, the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) (represented by the Public Investment Corporation SOC Limited) and the Pan African Infrastructure Development Fund (PAIDF) (an infrastructure fund managed by Harith General Partners) announced changes in their shareholding in the company as part of their strategic realignment and restructuring of their investment in the airport.
This realignment will result in GEPF increasing its shareholding in the airport whilst PAIDF will transfer its interest to a newly formed investment vehicle called Harith Infraco Limited.
The realignment is the first significant change since 2013 when the GEPF, together with PAIDF and an empowerment consortium led by Nozala Investments (Pty) Ltd acquired ownership of the airport. The investment by the empowerment consortium was facilitated by the GEPF (PIC).
The Chief Executive Officer of Lanseria International Airport, Rampa Rammopo, indicated that these changes serve as a clear signal of the shareholders’ confidence in the airport’s growth potential and operational excellence. Rammopo further adds that, whilst it will be business as usual pursuant to these changes, the restructured ownership structure will unlock further capital for the critical infrastructure projects aimed at transforming the airport into a regional and global aviation hub. Such projects include the development of a cargo precinct, Maintenance Repair Overhaul facility and the Fixed Based Operator precinct. Lanseria further plans to upgrade its Taxiway infrastructure, including the development of a new fuel farm.
According to Rammopo, these capital projects will increase the airport’s efficiency and reliability, attracting international trade and logistic partners, revitalize our general aviation services, expand our operational capacity, reinforcing our reputation for excellence while enhancing Lanseria’s competitiveness on the global stage.
As to the airport’s vision of long-term growth and sustainability, Lanseria has set its sights on regional expansion through acquiring and managing airports across Africa. “This speaks to our ambition to the growth of aviation infrastructure across the continent.”
With Lanseria International Airport moving into its next phase of growth, its reinvigorated ownership structure will maintain its clear focus on innovation and expansion. “Lanseria remains focused on strengthening our role as a gateway to Africa, fostering growth in both the business and tourism sectors and building our domestic economy,” Rammopo concludes.
